In a moving video filmed in Burnham-on-Sea, local residents open up about the personal reasons they chose to quit smoking and the powerful changes that followed.
For some, it was about reclaiming their health and fitness. One resident shared how taking up dog agility with their pet made them realise they couldn’t keep up while smoking. Another recalled struggling to climb stairs without getting out of breath, prompting them to quit for good.
Family was a strong motivator too. One woman quit at 29, knowing she wanted to start a family and didn’t want to crave cigarettes during pregnancy. Another gave up when their daughter became pregnant and asked them not to smoke around the baby.
Others spoke about the moment they realised they were addicted. “I was walking along and suddenly thought, ‘I need a cigarette.’ That’s when I knew—I’m addicted. And I’m not going to be a slave to this,” one person said.
Health scares also played a role. A diagnosis of COPD and a worsening cough pushed one individual to finally stop. For others, it was the link between smoking and drinking when they gave up alcohol, smoking naturally followed.
And then there’s the financial cost. “I couldn’t understand why I was going overdrawn each month,” one person admitted, “until I realised how much I was spending on cigarettes.”
These stories show that there’s no single path to quitting—just a shared desire for something better. Whether it’s for health, family, freedom, or finances, the people of Burnham-on-Sea are proving that change is possible.
Ready to start your smokefree journey?
Smokefree Somerset offers free, friendly support to help you quit in a way that works for you. Whether you’re thinking about quitting, just getting started, or need help staying on track, you’re not alone.
👉 Visit www.smokefreesomerset.org.uk
📞 Or call 0300 303 9988 to speak to a trained advisor
Your reason is enough. Let Smokefree Somerset help you take the next step.
